Why You Should Avoid Putting These Types Of Pillows In Your Washing Machine

After a while, your pillows can get pretty gross with all the sweat, oils, and dust they collect. Naturally, you want to clean them , but not all makes can be just thrown into the washer. While down and feather pillows can be safely laundered in a washing machine, memory foam and solid latex foam pillows should be kept far away from your appliance.

Memory foam and latex foam pillows are popular because they mold to the shape of your head and neck, giving you great support. However, the materials that make them so comfy also make them extra delicate when it comes to cleaning, so tossing them in the washing machine can actually ruin them. The foam can break down and lose its shape, and overall, the pillows won't be as supportive. Instead, there are gentler ways to clean memory foam and latex foam pillows without damaging them. Here's more about why you should never machine wash these pillows, as well as some tips on how to keep them clean and maintain their supportive qualities.

As mentioned, memory foam pillows are great because they mold perfectly to your head and neck, offering personalized comfort. This is because the material reacts to your body heat and pressure. But this unique quality also makes it fragile when it comes to machine cleaning. The rough spinning and tumbling in a washing machine can be too harsh for memory foam. It can tear, crumble, or lose its shape entirely. Once that happens, the pillow can't support you properly anymore. Additionally, memory foam absorbs a lot of water, making it hard to dry. If it doesn't dry completely, you could end up with mold and mildew inside the pillow, which is not just gross but also unhealthy. Mold spores are common allergens that can lead to allergic rhinitis and dermatitis, especially if you use the pillow every night.

Solid latex foam pillows are also fantastic choices because they're durable, bouncy, and naturally resistant to dust mites and mold. Plus, they're great for those who are eco-conscious and have allergies. Like memory foam, though, they don't do well in the washing machine. Latex foam has a structure full of tiny air bubbles, which makes it supportive and springy. However, the washing machine's vigorous motion can compress and damage the padding, causing the foam to tear or lose its shape, making the pillow less supportive. 

Got a stain on your memory foam or latex foam pillow? No worries — just spot-clean it. To do this, mix some mild detergent with lukewarm water, dip a clean cloth into the mixture, and gently dab the affected area until the stain is gone. Then, take a damp cloth and wipe off any leftover soap. Let the pillow air-dry before using it again. If you want to hand-wash the entire pillow, fill a bathtub or large basin with lukewarm water and add a small amount of mild detergent. Mix it gently to create a soapy solution. Now, place your pillow in the water and massage it lightly to allow the soapy water to penetrate the foam. Then, let it air dry on a surface that's flat, well-ventilated, and away from direct heat and sunlight as both memory and latex foam are sensitive to sunlight. 

It's also important to give your pillows some fresh air every now and then. Place them in a well-ventilated spot or outside on a dry, sunny day. Just don't leave them in direct sunlight as it can mess with the foam. Using protectors also offers many benefits, such as keeping your pillows cleaner for longer. These can be washed regularly and help keep dirt and sweat away. You can buy a two-pack of pillow protectors at Walmart for $14.